The tax bills have been delivered and now the good citizens of Lynn are sending in their payments. This would be an ideal time for the city to publish a list of all properties that do not pay real estate taxes. They should also print the percentage of properties that do not pay real estate taxes.
Why not make everyone pay taxes? There should not be exemptions. All properties utilize the services provided by the city. If some properties are exempt by law — then change the law.
A while ago, there was an article in the paper that said the YMCA does not pay taxes. Not a bad deal for a big-time physical fitness center that can afford to pay its manager a six-figure salary.
As for religious properties, they should also pay. They are like a business in that if they don’t make enough money, they will close. Case in point — St. Michael’s parish was closed because they didn’t make enough money and the property was sold for a nice profit.
All non-public schools should also pay taxes for the same reason. Why should the citizens have to subsidize everyone who does not pay their fair share of taxes?
Philip Randazzo
Lynn
